Protect Your Home

As a homeowner, your property is likely one of your biggest financial investments. But did you know that scammers can target your home without you ever realizing it? Property fraud is an escalating issue across the country, where bad actors record fraudulent deeds or encumbrances to make it look like they own your property.

The good news? Taking control of your home’s security takes less than five minutes. Free Property Fraud Alerts are available to homeowners across Tampa Bay, giving you automatic notifications whenever a document or filing is recorded against your home. Here is how it works, why it matters, and how you can sign up today.

What Is Property Fraud?

Property fraud—often referred to as deed fraud or title theft—occurs when someone illegally files forged paperwork in official county records. Scammers can record fake deeds transferring ownership into their name, or use your equity to take out fraudulent loans and mortgages.

This isn't just a theoretical crime. In fact, Tampa Bay has seen some of the most notorious property fraud cases in history.

The Cautionary Tale of Matthew Cox

To understand how severe deed fraud can get, look no further than the case of Matthew Cox—the mastermind behind one of the most infamous property fraud schemes in U.S. history.

Operating right here in Tampa, Cox systematically falsified documents and stole identities to make it appear as though he owned multiple properties he had no right to. Armed with these fake deeds, he secured millions of dollars in fraudulent mortgage loans before fleeing Tampa when an investigative reporter from the St. Petersburg Times began digging into his actions.

Cox spent three years on the run living under an alias in Nashville, Tennessee, before being captured in 2006 and ultimately sentenced to 26 years in federal prison. While Cox was caught, his victims faced long, costly legal battles to clear their stolen titles—a nightmare no homeowner should have to experience.

How Property Fraud Alerts Protect You

County Clerk offices cannot verify the legal validity of every document submitted for public recording—they are required by law to record documents that meet basic formatting criteria. That means a forged deed can be recorded before you ever realize what happened.

Property Fraud Alerts act as an early-warning radar. Whenever a deed, lien, mortgage, or other document matching your name or parcel ID is filed with the county clerk, you’ll immediately receive an email or phone notification. If the filing is legitimate, you can rest easy; if it’s unauthorized, you can take swift action before serious damage is done.

How to Register for Alerts in Tampa Bay

Signing up is fast, simple, and 100% free. Most counties throughout Tampa Bay (including Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco) offer this service directly through the County Clerk of Court & Controller.

Option 1: Online Registration (Fastest)

• Search online for your county name along with the phrase "Property Fraud Alert" (e.g., Hillsborough County Property Fraud Alert).

• Navigate to your County Clerk of Court & Controller's official registration page.

• Enter your full legal name, business name (if applicable), and contact information.

• Submit the form and check your inbox for a confirmation email to complete setup.

Option 2: Register by Phone

If you prefer guided assistance, select county alert networks allow you to register directly over the phone by calling 1-800-728-3858. A great perk of the phone method is being connected to a live representative who can walk you through the signup process step-by-step.

Proactive Steps for Peace of Mind

• Register all legal variations of your name: Be sure to include middle names, maiden names, or trust titles to cover all potential filings.

• Monitor secondary properties: Don't forget to register rental homes, vacant land, or family properties you manage.

• Act fast if notified: If you receive an alert regarding a document you didn't authorize, contact your local law enforcement agency and real estate legal counsel immediately.

Closing Thoughts

Protecting your home doesn't require complex security systems or high monthly fees. Taking five minutes to sign up for your county's free Property Fraud Alert service provides lasting peace of mind for your financial future.

Have questions about property fraud, staying safe as a homeowner, or navigating the Tampa Bay real estate market? Reach out anytime—I’m always here to help you protect and enjoy your homeownership journey!

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